Odunayo is a 2018 kanthari alumni who founded and runs Bramble learning space, an open learning community which provides quality and lifelong education in a fun and engaging way. It is the first alternative learning space in Nigeria.
Bramble learning space focuses on mental, social, physical, and emotional development of every child. With the support of creative educators – like in kanthari, called catalysts, Bramble brings in new structures into the education system of Nigeria.
One transformational part of their structure is what they call as a ‘’Family Meeting’. Omoyemi Adeayo, one of the catalysts at Bramble shares her thoughts and observations about what outcomes these Family meetings bring into the lives of children.
Our Family Meeting –
by Omoyemi Adeayo, Catalyst, Bramble
Our Family Meeting –
by Omoyemi Adeayo, Catalyst, Bramble
Every individual irrespective of their background has an idea or thought to offer, but not everyone finds a platform for this expression. For us in Bramble, every idea is important and should be considered with fairness. We wanted a place where everyone of us could share our experiences, thoughts, opinions, or ideas about issues of life without condemnation. This inspired the Family circle. We believe it will help to build independent-thinking, confidence and a sense of community in both children and catalysts.
In the Bramble learning space, our family meeting is a daily adventure, that every of our community members look forward to because of the content and mind transforming ideas shared during this time. Sometimes, we improve our tenses and vocabulary, sometimes we talk about our values until these become a part of us, and we act them out smoothly. The natural exploration of diverse issues in society keeps advancing, and in turn, directs many of us in our life, and the future we are creating.
I remember one of our sessions when everyone decided to share how family meetings have helped all of them so far. The responses from our learners and other Catalysts left me in tears. One of the learners said that before coming to Bramble, she could not talk in the presence of people because she doesn’t understand English, but now, because Bramble taught her to be bold and have confidence, she speaks up.
We have discovered purpose, learned to accept ourselves and each other, irrespective of any socio-economic background. We believe everyone has the right to live in a safe community. In the past meetings, while listening to young members of the community, we have gained insight into many unfolding events. From the oldest to the youngest, we know that respect means active listening to one another, and love means to joyfully share our thoughts so they can benefit anyone.
What an amazing transformation, although we are not there yet but we are grateful for how far we have come. We learn, play, think and explore together for we are made for love, peace, and all good things that we deserve.
Every opinion matters
Every idea is big
Every thought is worthy
Every experience is valid.
